U.S. patent application number 09/977742 was filed with the patent office on 2002-06-20 for personal transaction device with secure storage on a removable memory device.
Invention is credited to Tobin, Christopher M..
Application Number | 20020077992 09/977742 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26943988 |
Filed Date | 2002-06-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020077992 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Tobin, Christopher M. |
June 20, 2002 |
Personal transaction device with secure storage on a removable
memory device
Abstract
An electronic system includes a user transaction device that
provides a device identifier when coupled to a transaction
terminal. The transaction terminal is configured to indicate that a
transaction is to be performed when coupled to the user transaction
device. The electronic system also includes a transaction privacy
clearinghouse (TPCH), coupled selectively to the user transaction
device when a transaction is to be performed. The TPCH is coupled
to receive the device identifier and accessible data. Additionally,
the accessible data is to be stored in a public storage area of a
memory storage device that can be communicatively coupled to the
user transaction device. The TPCH authorizes a transaction based
upon the device identifier and the accessible data that includes
account information of a user that is authorized to use the user
transaction device. Moreover, a transaction is authorized without
providing the identity of the user to the transaction terminal. The
memory storage device also includes a private storage area for
storage of confidential data such that the private storage area is
to be encrypted with a key that is to be stored in the user
transaction device.
Inventors: |
Tobin, Christopher M.;
(McLean, VA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BLAKELY SOKOLOFF TAYLOR & ZAFMAN
12400 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD, SEVENTH FLOOR
LOS ANGELES
CA
90025
US
|
Family ID: |
26943988 |
Appl. No.: |
09/977742 |
Filed: |
October 15, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60254338 |
Dec 8, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
705/65 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 20/04 20130101;
G06Q 20/367 20130101; G06Q 20/4014 20130101; G06Q 20/20 20130101;
G06Q 20/023 20130101; G06Q 20/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/65 |
International
Class: |
G06F 017/60 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An electronic transaction device comprising: a transaction
device identifier, the identifier providing no apparent
identification of a user authorized to use the electronic
transaction device; communication logic configured to communicate
the transaction device identifier to a system to perform a
transaction, the system comprising a secure mechanism for
correlating the device identifier and user; and a detachable memory
device configured to include a public storage area and a private
storage area, wherein the private storage area is to store
confidential data that is to be encrypted with a key that is stored
within memory of the electronic transaction device.
2. The electronic transaction device as set forth in claim 1,
wherein the public storage area of the detachable memory device is
to be accessible without the key from the user transaction
device.
3. The electronic transaction device as set forth in claim 1,
wherein the private storage area comprises a number of private
storage areas and wherein different keys for accessing each of the
number of private storage areas are to be stored in the electronic
transaction device.
4. The electronic transaction device as set forth in claim 3,
wherein the number of private storage areas is associated with
different levels of encryption.
5. The electronic transaction device as set forth in claim 1,
wherein a data protection mode signal is operable to be wirelessly
transmitted to the electronic transaction device to cause the
electronic transaction device to remove the key that is to encrypt
the private storage area of the memory storage device.
6. The electronic transaction device as set forth in claim 5,
wherein the data protection mode signal is to be wirelessly
transmitted to the electronic transaction device using a
communication system.
7. The electronic transaction device as set forth in claim 5,
wherein a key-located mode signal is operable to be wirelessly
transmitted to the electronic transaction device to cause the
electronic transaction device to store the key for encryption of
the private storage area, wherein the key-located mode signal is to
include the key for encryption of the private storage area.
8. The electronic transaction device as set forth in claim 1,
wherein the transaction device is selected from the group
consisting of a privacy card, digital wallet, and a privacy card
configured to be coupled to a digital wallet.
9. The electronic transaction device as set forth in claim 1,
wherein the security logic is selected from logic to confirm an
identification selected from the group consisting of a PIN code and
fingerprint.
10. The electronic transaction device as set forth in claim 1,
wherein the communication logic is selected from the group
consisting of a smart card chip interface, contactless connection,
magnetic stripe and wireless connection.
11. The electronic transaction device as set forth in claim 1,
further comprising a transaction history storage area configured to
store transaction records.
12. The electronic transaction device as set forth in claim 1,
further comprising a financial data storage area configured to
store information selected from the group consisting of eCoupons,
account balances and other data used during a transaction.
13. The electronic transaction device as set forth in claim 1,
wherein the communication logic is configured to accept direct
marketing information.
14. An electronic transaction device comprising: a processor; an
internal memory coupled to the processor, wherein a transaction
device identifier is to be stored within the internal memory, the
transaction device identifier to provide no apparent identification
of a user authorized to use the electronic transaction device; a
peripheral port coupled to the processor and the internal memory,
wherein the peripheral port is operable to be communicatively
coupled to an external memory storage device, wherein the external
memory storage device is configured to include a public storage
area and a private storage area, wherein the private storage area
is to store confidential data that is to be encrypted with a key
that is stored within the internal memory of the electronic
transaction device; and an electronic commerce process to be
executed by the processor to cause the processor to conduct an
electronic commerce transaction with a vendor using data stored in
the public storage area of the detachable memory storage
device.
15. The electronic transaction device as set forth in claim 14,
wherein the public storage area of the detachable memory device is
to be accessible without the key from the user transaction
device.
16. The electronic transaction device as set forth in claim 14,
wherein the private storage area comprises a number of private
storage areas and wherein different keys for accessing each of the
number of private storage areas are to be stored in the electronic
transaction device.
17. The electronic transaction device as set forth in claim 16,
wherein the number of private storage areas is associated with
different levels of encryption.
18. The electronic transaction device as set forth in claim 14,
further comprising a wireless communication interface coupled to
the processor to receive a data protection mode signal and wherein
the processor removes the key that is to encrypt the private
storage area of the memory storage device in response to receipt of
the data protection mode signal.
19. The electronic transaction device as set forth in claim 14,
further comprising a wireless communication interface coupled to
the processor to receive a key-located mode signal that includes
the key for encryption of the private storage area, and wherein the
processor stores the key for encryption of the private storage area
in response to receipt of the key-located mode signal.
20. An electronic system comprising: a user transaction device that
provides a device identifier when coupled to a transaction
terminal, wherein said transaction terminal is configured to
indicate that a transaction is to be performed when coupled to the
user transaction device; and a transaction privacy clearinghouse
(TPCH), coupled selectively to the user transaction device when the
transaction is to be performed, said TPCH coupled to receive the
device identifier and accessible data, wherein the accessible data
is to be stored in a public storage area of a memory storage device
that can be communicatively coupled to the user transaction device,
said TPCH authorizing the transaction based upon the device
identifier and the accessible data that includes account
information of a user that is authorized to use the user
transaction device, wherein the transaction is authorized without
providing the identity of the user to the transaction terminal and
wherein the memory storage device is to include a private storage
area for storage of confidential data such that the private storage
area is to be encrypted with a key that is to be stored in the user
transaction device.
21. The electronic system as set forth in claim 20, wherein the
memory storage device is detachable from the user transaction
device.
22. The electronic system as set forth in claim 20, and wherein the
public storage area of the memory storage device is to be
accessible without the key from the user transaction device.
23. The electronic system as set forth in claim 20, wherein the
private storage area comprises a number of private storage areas
and wherein different keys for accessing each of the number of
private storage areas are to be stored in the user transaction
device.
24. The electronic system as set forth in claim 23, wherein the
number of private storage areas are associated with different
levels of encryption.
25. The electronic system as set forth in claim 20, wherein a data
protection mode signal is operable to be wirelessly transmitted to
the user transaction device to cause the user transaction device to
remove the key that is to encrypt the private storage area of the
memory storage device.
26. The electronic system as set forth in claim 25, wherein the
data protection mode signal is to be wirelessly transmitted to the
user transaction device using a communication system.
27. The electronic system as set forth in claim 25, wherein a
key-located mode signal is operable to be wirelessly transmitted to
the user transaction device to cause the user transaction device to
store the key for encryption of the private storage area, wherein
the key-located mode signal is to include the key for encryption of
the private storage area.
28. The electronic system as set forth in claim 20, wherein the
transaction terminal is selected from the group consisting of a
point of sale (POS) terminal, home computer system, bank automatic
teller machine (ATM) terminal, digital television, Internet
Appliance, and personal POS terminal.
29. The electronic system as set forth in claim 20, wherein the
transaction device is selected from the group consisting of a
privacy card, digital wallet, and a privacy card configured to be
coupled to a digital wallet.
30. The electronic system as set forth in claim 20, wherein the
TPCH is further configured to selectively couple to a financial
institution.
31. The electronic system as set forth in claim 20, wherein the
TPCH further comprises a financial institution.
32. The electronic system as set forth in claim 20, wherein the
TPCH comprises a secure database of transaction device information
and user information, said database accessed for authorizing a
transaction.
33. The electronic system as set forth in claim 20, wherein the
TPCH is configured to interface to a financial processing system
configured to perform financial transactions associated with the
transaction.
34. The electronic system as set forth in claim 33, wherein the
financial processing system is configured to transfer funds in an
amount associated with the transaction from a user's account to an
account of a vendor of the transaction.
35. The electronic system as set forth in claim 20, further
comprising a distribution system configured to provide a product of
the transaction to the user.
36. The electronic system as set forth in claim 20, wherein the
TPCH further comprises a distribution system configured to provide
a product of the transaction to the user.
37. The electronic system as set forth in claim 20, wherein the
TPCH is further configured to perform operations selected from the
group consisting of data mining based upon transactions performed
and direct marketing to a transaction device of the user.
38. The electronic system as set forth in claim 37, wherein results
of data mining are provided without identification of the user and
direct marketing is performed without identifying the user.
39. The electronic system as set forth in claim 20, wherein the
transaction terminal, transaction device and TPCH are further
configured to verify the legitimacy of each other.
40. A method for permitting a user to conduct electronic commerce
transactions, the method comprising: in a secure server,
maintaining an association between the user and a transaction
device using a transaction device identifier that corresponds to
the user, wherein the transaction device is communicatively coupled
to a detachable memory storage device having a public storage area
and a private storage area, the private storage area being
encrypted with a key that is stored in the transaction device; and
conducting an electronic commerce transaction with a vendor using
data stored in the public storage area of the detachable memory
storage device.
41. The method of claim 40, wherein the private storage area
comprises a number of private storage areas and wherein different
keys for accessing each of the number of private storage areas are
to be stored in the transaction device.
42. The method of claim 41, wherein the number of private storage
areas are associated with different levels of encryption.
43. The method of claim 40, wherein a data protection mode signal
is operable to be wirelessly transmitted to the transaction device
to cause the transaction device to remove the key that is to
encrypt the private storage area of the memory storage device.
44. The method of claim 43, wherein a key-located mode signal is
operable to be wirelessly transmitted to the transaction device to
cause the transaction device to store the key for encryption of the
private storage area, wherein the key-located mode signal is to
include the key for encryption of the private storage area.
45. The method of claim 40, wherein the electronic commerce
transaction is conducted without requiring the user to reveal
personal identification information to the vendor.
46. The method of claim 40, wherein a set of personal
identification information corresponding to the user is obtained
and associated to the transaction device identifier upon a
registration of the transaction device.
47. The method of claim 46, wherein pursuant to the electronic
commerce transaction, the delivery of content to the user is
initiated using the set of personal identification information.
48. The method of claim 40, wherein pursuant to the electronic
commerce transaction, the delivery of content to the user is
initiated using the device identifier.
49. The method of claim 40, wherein pursuant to the electronic
commerce transaction, the delivery of content to the user is
performed without providing personal information of the user.
50. A machine-readable medium that provides instructions for
permitting a user to conduct electronic commerce transactions,
which when executed by a machine, cause said machine to perform
operations comprising: in a secure server, maintaining an
association between the user and a transaction device using a
transaction device identifier that corresponds to the user, wherein
the transaction device is communicatively coupled to a detachable
memory storage device having a public storage area and a private
storage area, such that the private storage area is encrypted with
a key that is stored in the transaction device; and conducting an
electronic commerce transaction with a vendor using data stored in
the public storage area of the detachable memory storage
device.
51. The machine-readable medium of claim 50, wherein the private
storage area comprises a number of private storage areas and
wherein different keys for accessing each of the number of private
storage areas are to be stored in the transaction device.
52. The machine-readable medium of claim 51, wherein the number of
private storage areas are associated with different levels of
encryption.
53. The machine-readable medium of claim 50, wherein a data
protection mode signal is operable to be wirelessly transmitted to
the transaction device to cause the transaction device to remove
the key that is to encrypt the private storage area of the memory
storage device.
54. The machine-readable medium of claim 53, wherein a key-located
mode signal is operable to be wirelessly transmitted to the
transaction device to cause the transaction device to store the key
for encryption of the private storage area, wherein the key-located
mode signal is to include the key for encryption of the private
storage area.
55. The machine-readable medium of claim 50, wherein the electronic
commerce transaction is conducted without requiring the user to
reveal personal identification information to the vendor.
56. The machine-readable medium of claim 50, wherein a set of
personal identification information corresponding to the user is
obtained and associated to the transaction device identifier upon a
registration of the transaction device.
57. The machine-readable medium of claim 56, wherein pursuant to
the electronic commerce transaction, the delivery of content to the
user is initiated using the set of personal identification
information.
58. The machine-readable medium of claim 50, wherein pursuant to
the electronic commerce transaction, the delivery of content to the
user is initiated using the device identifier.
59. The machine-readable medium of claim 50, wherein pursuant to
the electronic commerce transaction, the delivery of content to the
user is performed without providing personal information of the
user.
60. The machine-readable medium of claim 50, further comprising
contacting a financial processing system configured to transfer
funds in an amount associated with the transaction from the user's
account to an account of a vendor of the transaction.
61. The machine-readable medium of claim 60, wherein the financial
processing system does not know the user's personal
information.
62. The machine-readable medium of claim 60, wherein the financial
processing system does not know subject information of the
transaction.
63. The machine-readable medium of claim 50, further comprising
performing data mining operations related to the transaction.
64. The machine-readable medium of claim 50 further comprising
performing direct marketing to the user utilizing the transaction
device as the receiver of marketing information.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application Serial No. 60/254,338 filed on Dec. 8, 2000, which is
hereby incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to a device coupled to a
removable memory device having a secure storage.
[0004] 2. Art Background
[0005] Transactions are preformed everyday over different networks,
such as the Internet, and through point of sale (POS) or bank
systems. Such systems are designed to maintain the integrity of the
user's credit card, debit card, and account number. However, no
measures are taken to ensure the privacy of the user. As the vendor
retains information regarding the identity of the user, the user is
open to receipt of marketing materials that may result from the
data mining of transactions performed on a particular network.
[0006] Moreover, consumers of different devices connecting to the
different networks and through POS or bank systems are concerned
regarding the storage of confidential information including
personal information, financial information, etc. in such devices.
Some consumers perceive more control over such information handled
within a traditional wallet, that is the wallet having this
information that a user can simply inspect, to perhaps ensure that
this information that could include the consumer's social security
number, mother's maiden name, car lock combination, etc. would not
be compromised in the even of loss or theft.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] An electronic system includes a user transaction device that
provides a device identifier when coupled to a transaction
terminal. The transaction terminal is configured to indicate that a
transaction is to be performed when coupled to the user transaction
device. The electronic system also includes a transaction privacy
clearinghouse (TPCH), coupled selectively to the user transaction
device when a transaction is to be performed. The TPCH is coupled
to receive the device identifier and accessible data. Additionally,
the accessible data is to be stored in a public storage area of a
memory storage device that can be communicatively coupled to the
user transaction device. The TPCH authorizes a transaction based
upon the device identifier and the accessible data that includes
account information of a user that is authorized to use the user
transaction device. Moreover, a transaction is authorized without
providing the identity of the user to the transaction terminal. The
memory storage device also includes a private storage area for
storage of confidential data such that the private storage area is
to be encrypted with a key that is to be stored in the user
transaction device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The objects, features and advantages of the present
invention will be apparent from the following detailed description
in which:
[0009] FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram of one embodiment of a
secure transaction system.
[0010] FIG. 2 is a simplified block diagram of one embodiment of a
privacy card for a personal transaction device.
[0011] FIG. 3 is a simplified block diagram of one embodiment of a
digital wallet for a personal transaction device.
[0012] FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a memory storage area
within a memory storage device.
[0013] FIG. 5 illustrates another embodiment of a memory storage
area within a memory storage device.
[0014] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a flow diagram for
operation of the secure transaction system of FIG. 1.
[0015] FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of protecting confidential
information in the memory storage device illustrated in FIGS. 4 and
5.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0016] In the following descriptions for the purposes of
explanation, numerous details are set forth in order to provide a
thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will
be apparent to one skilled in the art that these specific details
are not required in order to practice the present invention. In
other instances, well known electrical structures or circuits are
shown in block diagram form in order not to obscure the present
invention unnecessarily.
[0017] In one embodiment, a system and method enable a user to
conduct electronic commerce transactions without compromising the
user's personal identification information and identity, while also
providing enhanced direct marketing for vendors. The following
description discusses embodiments in the context of Internet and
point of sale (POS) networks. However, it is readily apparent that
embodiments are not limited to these particular networks, and are
applicable to any network that is configured to perform a
transaction.
[0018] In an embodiment, a personal transaction device is
communicatively coupled to a detachable memory storage device,
wherein the detachable memory storage device includes public and
private storage areas. In one such embodiment, the
encryption/decryption key for the private storage area is stored in
the memory of the personal transaction device. Accordingly, if the
detachable memory storage device were lost or stolen, the data
within the private storage area would remain inaccessible without
the personal transaction device that includes the key for the
encrypted data.
[0019] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a secure
transaction system, which may be used in electronic commerce. In
this embodiment, a transaction privacy clearing house (TPCH) 115
interfaces a user (consumer) 140 and a vendor 125. In this
particular embodiment, a personal transaction device (PTD) 170,
e.g., a privacy card 105, or a privacy card 105 coupled to a
digital wallet 150, is used to maintain the privacy of the user
while enabling the user to perform transactions. In an alternate
embodiment, the PTD 170 may be any suitable device that allows
unrestricted access to TPCH 130. The personal transaction device
information is provided to the TPCH 115 that then indicates to the
vendor 125 and the user 140 approval of the transaction to be
performed.
[0020] In order to maintain confidentiality of the identity of the
user 140, the transaction device information does not provide user
identification information. Thus, the vendor 125 or other entities
do not have user information but rather transaction device
information. The TPCH 115 maintains a secure database of
transaction device information and user information. In one
embodiment, the TPCH 115 interfaces to at least one financial
processing system 120 to perform associated financial transactions,
such as confirming sufficient funds to perform the transaction, and
transfers to the vendor 125 the fees required to complete the
transaction. In addition, the TPCH 115 may also provide information
through a distribution system 130 that, in one embodiment, can
provide a purchased product to the user 140, again without the
vendor 125 knowing the identification of the user 140. In an
alternate embodiment, the financial processing system 120 need not
be a separate entity but may be incorporated with other
functionality. For example, in one embodiment, the financial
processing system 120 may be combined with the TPCH 115
functionality.
[0021] In one embodiment, the financial processing system (FP) 120
performs tasks of transferring funds between the user's account and
the vendor's account for each transaction. In one embodiment, the
presence of the TPCH 115 means that no details of the transactions,
other than the amount of the transactions and other basic
information, are known to the FP 120. The TPCH 115 issues
transaction authorizations to the FP 120 function on an anonymous
basis on behalf of the user over a highly secure channel. The FP
120 does not need to have many electronic channels receiving
requests for fund transfer, as in a traditional financial
processing system. In one embodiment, a highly secure channel is
set up between the TPCH 115 and the FP 120; thus, the FP 120 is
less vulnerable to spoofing.
[0022] In one embodiment, the FP 120 is contacted by the TPCH 115
requesting a generic credit approval of a particular account. Thus
the FP 120 receives a minimal amount of information. In one
embodiment, the transaction information, including the
identification of goods being purchased with the credit need not be
passed to the FP 120. The TPCH 115 can request the credit using a
dummy charge ID that can be listed in the monthly credit statement
sent to the user, so that the user can reconcile his credit
statement. Further, the personal transaction device 105 can include
functionality to cause the credit statement to convert the dummy
charge ID back to the transactional information so that the credit
statement appears to be a conventional statement that lists the
goods that were purchased and the associated amount charged.
[0023] A display input device 160 (shown in phantom) may be
included to enable the user, or in some embodiments the vendor 125,
to display status and provide input regarding the PTD 105 and the
status of the transaction to be performed.
[0024] In yet another embodiment, an entry point 110 interfaces
with the personal transaction device 170 and also communicates with
the TPCH 115. The entry point 110 may be an existing (referred to
herein as a legacy POS terminal) or a newly configured point of
sale (POS) terminal located in a retail environment. The user 140
uses the PTD 170 to interface to the POS terminal in a manner
similar to how credit cards and debit cards interface with POS
terminals. The entry point 110 may also be a public kiosk, a
personal computer, or the like.
[0025] The system described herein also provides a distribution
functionality 130 whereby products purchased via the system are
distributed. In one embodiment, the distribution function 130 is
integrated with the TPCH 115 functionality. In an alternate
embodiment, the distribution function 130 may be handled by a third
party. Utilizing either approach, the system ensures user privacy
and data security. The distribution function 130 interacts with the
user through PTD 130 to ship the product to the appropriate
location. A variety of distribution systems are contemplated, for
example, electronic distribution through a POS terminal coupled to
the network, electronic distribution direct to one or more privacy
cards and/or digital wallets, or physical product distribution. In
one embodiment for physical product distribution, an "anonymous
drop-off point", such as a convenience store or other ubiquitous
location is used. In another embodiment, it involves the use of a
"package distribution kiosk" that allows the user to retrieve the
package from the kiosk in a secure fashion. However, in one
embodiment, the user may use PTD 170 to change the shipping address
of the product at any time during the distribution cycle.
[0026] A user connects to and performs transactions with a secure
transaction system (such as shown in FIG. 1) through a personal
transaction device (PTD) that has a unique identifier (ID). In one
embodiment, a privacy card is used. In an alternate embodiment a
digital wallet is used. In yet another alternate embodiment, a
privacy card in conjunction with a digital wallet is used.
[0027] One embodiment of a privacy card 205 is illustrated in FIG.
2. In one embodiment, the card 205 is configured to be the size of
a credit card. The privacy card includes a processor 210, memory
215 and input/output logic 220. The processor 210 is configured to
execute instructions to perform the functionality herein. The
instructions may be stored in the memory 215. The memory is also
configured to store data, such as transaction data and the like. In
one embodiment, the memory 215 stores the transaction ID used to
perform transactions in accordance with the teachings of the
present invention. Alternately, the processor may be replaced with
specially configured logic to perform the functions described
here.
[0028] The input/output logic 220 is configured to enable the
privacy card 205 to send and receive information. In one
embodiment, the input/output logic 220 is configured to communicate
through a wired or contact connection. In another embodiment, the
logic 220 is configured to communicate through a wireless or
contactless connection. A variety of communication technologies may
be used.
[0029] In one embodiment, a display 225 is used to generate bar
codes scanable by coupled devices and used to perform processes as
described herein. The privacy card 205 may also include a magnetic
stripe generator 240 to simulate a magnetic stripe readable by
devices such as legacy POS terminals.
[0030] In one embodiment, biometric information, such as
fingerprint recognition, is used as a security mechanism that
limits access to the card 205 to authorized users. A fingerprint
touch pad and associated logic 230 is therefore included in one
embodiment to perform these functions. Alternately, security may be
achieved using a smart card chip interface 250, which uses known
smart card technology to perform the function.
[0031] Memory 215 can have transaction history storage area. The
transaction history storage area stores transaction records
(electronic receipts) that are received from POS terminals. The
ways for the data to be input to the card include wireless
communications and the smart card chip interface which functions
similar to existing smart card interfaces. Both of these approaches
presume that the POS terminal is equipped with the corresponding
interface and can therefore transmit the data to the card.
[0032] Memory 215 can also have user identity/account information
block. The user identity/account information block stores data
about the user and accounts that are accessed by the card. The type
of data stored includes the meta account information used to
identify the account to be used.
[0033] One embodiment of a digital wallet 305 is illustrated in
FIG. 3. The digital wallet 305 includes a coupling input 310 for
the privacy card 205, processor 315, memory 320, input/output logic
325, display 330 and peripheral port 335. The processor 315 is
configured to execute instructions, such as those stored in memory
320, to perform the functionality described herein. Memory 320 may
also store data including financial information, eCoupons, shopping
lists and the like. The digital wallet may be configured to have
additional storage. In one embodiment, the additional storage is in
a form of a card that couples to the device through peripheral port
310.
[0034] In one embodiment, the privacy card 205 couples to the
digital wallet 305 through port 310; however, the privacy card 205
may also couple to the digital wallet 305 through another form of
connection including a wireless connection.
[0035] Input/output logic 325 provides the mechanism for the
digital wallet 305 to communicate information. In one embodiment,
the input/output logic 325 provides data to a point-of-sale
terminal or to the privacy card 205 in a pre-specified format. The
data may be output through a wired or wireless connection.
[0036] The digital wallet 305 may also include a display 330 for
display of status information to the user. The display 330 may also
provide requests for input and may be a touch sensitive display,
enabling the user to provide the input through the display.
[0037] The physical manifestation of many of the technologies in
the digital wallet 305 will likely be different from those in the
privacy card 205, mainly because of the availability of physical
real estate in which to package technology. Examples of different
physical representations would include the display, fingerprint
recognition unit, etc.
[0038] Moreover, in one embodiment, external and/or detachable
storage in reference to the personal transaction device 170 can be
employed for the storage of confidential and non-confidential
information or data. In an embodiment, this external and/or
detachable storage can be communicatively coupled to the privacy
card 205 through a port coupled to input/output logic 220. In one
embodiment, this external and/or detachable storage can be
communicatively coupled to the digital wallet 305 through coupling
port 310 and/or peripheral port 335. In one embodiment, the
external and/or detachable storage is a memory stick. However, this
is by way of example and not by way of limitation as any other
detachable memory storage device can be employed for the storage of
confidential and non-confidential information or data.
[0039] FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a memory storage area
within a memory storage device. As shown, FIG. 4 includes a memory
storage device 400 that includes a private storage area 402 and a
public storage area 404. In one embodiment, the data stored within
the private storage area 402 is encrypted, using, for example,
Magic Gate type technology developed by Sony Corporation.
[0040] In such embodiments, keys are exchanged between the
transaction device and the memory storage device 400 to allow
access to such data. The data stored in the private storage area
402, therefore, can only be accessed when the memory storage device
is coupled to, or at least communicating with, the transaction
device. In one such embodiment, the keys are unique for each of the
memory storage devices 400 and/or the transaction device.
Accordingly, if the security is compromised for a given device,
only the data stored in that device is subject to the compromise
and not other associated devices. For example, if a hacker were to
break the code for a given transaction device, such as a digital
wallet, only the data stored internally therein could be used and
not other transaction devices and memory storage devices associated
with the given user. This encryption technique is by way of example
and not by way of limitation, as other encryption techniques can be
employed. Returning to FIGS. 2 and 3 to help illustrate, the keys
for the private storage areas 402 of the memory storage devices 400
can be stored in the memory 215 and memory 220, respectively.
[0041] In one embodiment, the user of the transaction device
designates what data is considered private and to be stored in the
private storage area 402. For example, when the user enters and/or
receives data to be stored within a storage area of the transaction
device, the user designates whether the data is private and thus to
be stored in the private storage area 402. In another embodiment,
the transaction device is preconfigured to store data considered
private to the user into the private storage area 402. Examples of
such private data include, but are not limited to, the user's
social security number, the user's mother's maiden name, a car lock
combination, a personal identification number (PIN) number and/or
password associated with a credit card or Automated Teller Machine
(ATM) card.
[0042] In one embodiment, the key or code needed to decrypt the
encrypted data stored within the private storage area 402 is stored
within a personal transaction device, such as a digital wallet,
personal digital assistant (PDA), cellular telephone, etc.
Accordingly, if the memory storage device 400 were lost or stolen,
the data within the private storage area 402 would remain
inaccessible without the transaction device that includes the key
or code for the encrypted data.
[0043] In an embodiment, the memory storage device 400 can interact
with devices, such as the different POS terminals described above,
independent of a transaction device. In an embodiment, the public
storage area 404 would not include the high security features
(e.g., encryption) provided for the private storage area 402.
Accordingly, the memory stick could interface with other devices,
such as the different POS terminals, to allow access to some, such
as the public storage area 404, but not all portions of the memory
storage device 400. Examples of the types of data to be stored in
public storage area 404 include, but are not limited to, a limited
amount of cash or eCoupons.
[0044] In an embodiment, the memory storage device 400 is
dynamically configurable to increase the size of the public storage
area 404 while decreasing the private storage area 402 and/or
decrease the size of the public storage area 404 while increasing
the private storage area 402. In such embodiment, the memory
storage device 400 is, therefore, dynamic to accommodate the needs
of the user of memory storage device 400. For example, a first user
may desire to store a few bytes of data into the private storage
area 402, while a second user may desire to store a few megabytes
of data in such an area.
[0045] This configuration of the memory storage device 400 is by
way of example and not by way of limitation. In another embodiment,
the sizes of public storage area 404 and private storage area 402
are preconfigured. For example, in one embodiment, the private
storage area 402 could occupy 10% of the memory storage device 400,
while the public storage area 404 could occupy the remaining
90%.
[0046] FIG. 5 illustrates another embodiment of a memory storage
area within a memory storage device. As shown, FIG. 5 includes a
memory storage area 500 that includes a public storage area 504, a
first level private storage area 502, a second level private
storage area 506, a third level storage area 508. In one
embodiment, the data stored within the private storage areas 502,
506 and 508 are encrypted, using, for example, Magic Gate type
technology developed by Sony Corporation. However, embodiments are
not so limited, as other types of encryption may be employed. In an
embodiment, the number of different private storage areas within
the memory storage 500 is associated with different levels. In one
embodiment, these different levels for the private storage areas
correspond to different levels of security for the private storage
areas. For example, the number of bits for the encryption increases
as the level of the private storage areas increases. In another
embodiment, the different private storage areas are not associated
with different levels of encryption. Rather, the private storage
areas have a same level of security or encryption but have
different encryption keys. In one such embodiment, the different
encryption keys are stored on a same transaction device.
[0047] In another embodiment, the different encryption keys are
stored on different transaction devices. For example, the key for
the first level private storage area 502 could be stored in a first
transaction device, while a different encryption key for the second
level private storage area 506 could be stored in a second
transaction device. Moreover, the key for the third level private
storage area 508 could be stored in a different memory storage
device.
[0048] Similar to the memory storage device 400, in one embodiment,
keys are exchanged between the transaction device and the memory
storage device 500 to allow access to the data within the private
storage areas. The data stored in the private storage area 502, 506
and 508, therefore, can only be accessed when the memory storage
device is coupled to or at least communicating with the transaction
device or another memory storage device that includes the key for
encryption/decryption. In one such embodiment, the keys are unique
for each of the memory storage devices 500 and/or the transaction
device.
[0049] In one embodiment, the user of the transaction device
designates what is considered private and what level of privacy to
associate with the data. For example, in an embodiment, the user
could be presented with the option of high, medium and low, which
would correspond to different levels of encryption. In another
embodiment, the transaction device is preconfigured to categorize
the data into public and different levels of private. Similar to
the memory storage device 400, in an embodiment, the memory storage
device 500 can interact with devices, such as the different POS
terminals described above, independent of the transaction
device.
[0050] In an embodiment, the memory storage device 500 is
dynamically configurable to modify the sizes of the public storage
area 504 and the private storage areas 502, 506 and 508. For
example, the user can increase the size of the public storage area
504 while decreasing the sizes of the private storage areas 502,
506 and 508. To further illustrate, the user can increase the size
of the public storage area 504, while decreasing the size of one of
the private storage areas 502, 506 or 508 and keeping the size of
the other two private storage areas the same. This configuration of
the memory storage device 400 is by way of example and not by way
of limitation. In another embodiment, the sizes of public storage
area 504 and private storage areas 502, 506 and 508 are
preconfigured. For example, in one embodiment, the public storage
area 504 could occupy 85% of the memory storage device 500, while
each of the private storage areas 502, 506 and 508 could occupy
5%.
[0051] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a flow diagram for
operation of the secure transaction system of FIG. 1. Method 600 of
FIG. 6 commences with maintaining of an association between the
user of the personal transaction device and the personal
transaction device in the TPCH 115 located in a secure server, at
process block 602. In one such embodiment, this association is
based on a transaction device identifier that is associated with
the user. As previously described in conjunction with FIG. 1, the
TPCH 115 maintains a secure database of transaction device
information and user information. Accordingly, the TPCH 115
provides the identification of the personal transaction device
without the identity of the user to different entities that the
user interfaces with using the personal transaction device, such as
the vendors 125. In an embodiment, the personal transaction device
is communicatively coupled to a detachable memory storage device
having public and private storage areas, as described above in
conjunction with FIGS. 4 and 5.
[0052] Additionally, the TPCH 115 conducts an electronic commerce
transaction with an entity, such as the vendors 125, using data
stored in the public storage area of the detachable memory storage
device that is communicatively coupled to the personal transaction
device, at process block 604. For example, the public storage area
could include cash or eCoupons that the user may use to purchase
from one of the vendors 125 through TPCH 115 without such a vendor
knowing the identity of the user.
[0053] FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of protecting confidential
information in the memory storage device illustrated in FIG. 4 and
5. In this embodiment, the key to encrypt and decrypt the data from
the private storage area of a memory storage device is stored
within a transaction device. In one embodiment, the process
illustrated in FIG. 7 is activated by the user of the memory
storage device when the memory storage device is lost or stolen
from the user. Accordingly, the user actuates a data protection
mode for the memory storage device to cause the removal of the key
from the transaction device, at operation 702. In particular, the
user transmits a signal to a communications system. Examples of
different communications system include, but are not limited to, a
server, a cellular-based system, a satellite system, a local
wireless network and any other type of wireless-based system.
[0054] To help illustrate, a user could dial a telephone number
that would cause the transmission of a signal indicating a data
protection mode for their memory storage device to the given
communication system. In another embodiment, the user could cause
the transmission of this signal by logging into a web site and
indicating their desire to actuate the data protection mode for
their memory storage device. In one such embodiment, the web site
could be the TPCH, as described above. The above embodiments
illustrating how the user transmits the signal indicating a data
protection mode are by way of example and not by way of limitation,
as other techniques could be employed for the user to transmit this
signal. For example, in another embodiment, the user could call a
customer service representative, who would transmit this signal to
the communication system after the representative determines that
the user is properly authorized.
[0055] The communication system transmits a signal to the
transaction device or memory storage device to remove or delete the
key that allows access to the private storage area of the memory
storage device, at operation 704. In one embodiment, the
communication system transmits this signal to the transaction
device or the memory storage device through a wireless
communication. This signal can include the identification of the
associated transaction device or memory storage device, the given
memory storage device and the identification of the key for the
area within the given memory storage device to be removed. Upon
receipt of this signal, in one embodiment, the transaction device
or memory storage device removes the keys associated with the
memory storage device, thereby removing the keys that allow access
to the encrypted data stored in the private storage area(s). In an
embodiment, the communication system retains a copy of the key,
which is to be deleted within the transaction device, in a secured
area.
[0056] As illustrated by FIG. 7, embodiments also allow for the
reactivation/replacement of a key for a private storage area that
is stored in another device. For example, if the user were to
recover the memory storage device, the user could actuate a
key-located mode, at operation 706. In particular, the user
transmits a signal to the communications system, as described
above. Similar to the operation 702, examples of how the user could
communicate the signal to the communication system include dialing
a telephone number, logging into a web site or contacting a
customer service representative.
[0057] The communication system transmits a signal, which contains
the key for encryption for the private storage area that was
deleted in operation 704, to the transaction device or memory
storage device, at operation 708. In one embodiment, the
communication system transmits this signal to the transaction
device or the memory storage device through a wireless
communication. This signal can include the identification of the
associated transaction or memory storage device, the given memory
storage device that includes the encrypted data, the particular
memory storage area therein as well as the key for encryption. Upon
receipt of this signal, the transaction device or memory storage
device stores the key for the particular memory storage area into
memory therein.
[0058] The restoration of the key into the transaction device
and/or memory storage device illustrated in FIG. 7 is by way of
example and not by way of limitation. In an embodiment, the
transaction device or memory storage device into which the key is
to be restored can be communicatively coupled to a user's home
computer. The user can then couple the transaction device or memory
storage device to the communication system using the computer. For
example, the transaction device or memory storage device could be
inserted into a cradle that is coupled to the user's home computer.
Accordingly, if the communication system were a server coupled to
the Internet, the user could connect to the server using their
computer, thereby allowing the downloading of the key from the
server to the transaction device or memory storage device. In one
such embodiment, a virtual private network (VPN) could be
established between the user's computer and the server to provide a
heightened level of security there between.
[0059] The embodiment of the process of protecting confidential
information illustrated in FIG. 7 is by way of example and not by
way of limitation. In another embodiment, the key, and its removal
and reassertion can be with devices other than the transaction
device. For example, in another embodiment, the key could be stored
in a user's home computer, thereby allowing accessing to the
confidential information through a device, such as a personal POS
terminal, attachable to the computer. In another embodiment, the
key could be stored in another memory storage device, in either its
private or public storage area. Accordingly, the communication
system could communicate with the home computer or the other memory
storage device for the removal and reassertion of the key to access
the encrypted data for the memory storage device.
[0060] It will be appreciated that that more or fewer processes may
be incorporated into the method(s) illustrated in different figure
illustrating the flow diagrams without departing from the scope of
the invention and that no particular order is implied by the
arrangement of blocks shown and described herein. It further will
be appreciated that the method(s) described in conjunction with
such figures may be embodied in machine-executable instructions,
e.g. software. The instructions can be used to cause a
general-purpose or special-purpose processor that is programmed
with the instructions to perform the operations described.
Alternatively, the operations might be performed by specific
hardware components that contain hardwired logic for performing the
operations, or by any combination of programmed computer components
and custom hardware components. The methods may be provided as a
computer program product that may include a machine-readable medium
having stored thereon instructions which may be used to program a
computer (or other electronic devices) to perform the methods. For
the purposes of this specification, the terms "machine-readable
medium" shall be taken to include any medium that is capable of
storing or encoding a sequence of instructions for execution by the
machine and that cause the machine to perform any one of the
methodologies of the present invention. The term "machine-readable
medium" shall accordingly be taken to included, but not be limited
to, solid-state memories, optical and magnetic disks, and carrier
wave signals. Furthermore, it is common in the art to speak of
software, in one form or another (e.g., program, procedure,
process, application, module, logic . . . ), as taking an action or
causing a result. Such expressions are merely a shorthand way of
saying that execution of the software by a computer causes the
processor of the computer to perform an action or a produce a
result. It will also be appreciated.
[0061] The components of a secure transaction system illustrated in
FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 are further described in PCT published patent
application number US00/35619, which is assigned to the same
assignee as the present application and which is hereby
incorporated by reference. Embodiments have been described in
conjunction with the preferred embodiment. It is evident that
numerous alternatives, modifications, variations and uses will be
apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing
description.
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